If you are a vendor and want to learn about the procurement accessibility process, visit the Information for Vendors page.
All Information and Communication Technology (ICT) products and services from third party vendors that are purchased or used at UO must be accessible to people with disabilities regardless of whether a purchase is made via PCS, using a department procurement card or through another means. This includes web-based services, Canvas integrated tools, software, multimedia, kiosks, digital document creation, web development, hardware, and more.
Because an accessibility review can take a period of weeks to months, it is critical for UO community members to start the procurement process early. It may take vendors four or more weeks to provide the accessibility information that is required to complete the procurement process. Longer still, if a remediation plan is needed.
To start the process:
- If your procurement has already been submitted to PCS, you will be sent instructions.
- If you want to start the review before going to PCS or don't plan to go through PCS, submit a Request for Digital Accessibility Procurement Review.
- If your procurement must be approved within two weeks, consider an Emergency Deferral.
The Procurement Accessibility Guide/FAQ provides an overview of how and why accessibility is included in procurement and explains what you need to do.
Accessibility considerations are central to the procurement process. Whenever possible, include accessibility in the early stages of the procurement process, for example, when drafting an RFP or when exploring which product to purchase. Leaving accessibility until the end of the procurement process makes it more likely that the purchase will be delayed. To avoid issues, submit a Request for Digital Accessibility Procurement Review before you start working with PCS (the earlier, the better).
For any procurement including a contract or agreement, appropriate language regarding accessibility must be included. For procurements going through PCS, this is already integrated into the process.
Under some circumstances, a product or service that is not fully accessible may be procured. In those cases, the department is responsible for ensuring accommodations or alternative means of access are available to all users with disabilities. An accessibility plan should be communicated with users at the same time that the product is made available to users.
